Speaker: Jamie Rutledge , Elementary Art Teacher
Help inspire new teachers by introducing yourself and saying how long you've been a teacher, who inspired you, what you love about it...
Jamie Rutledge : Hi, I'm Jamie Rutledge. I've been teaching for about 10 years in elementary and I had a few teachers that inspired me along the way. Several in elementary and one specifically an English teacher in high school. And they were so sweet and caring and truly, I felt like they cared about me and I chose to be a teacher because of the kids. I love the kids, especially kindergarten age. They're honest, they're real, they inspire me and it's fun to watch them learn and grow and that's why I love teaching.
What advice do you have for people who are just starting their career as a teacher?
Jamie Rutledge : So the advice I would give to a new teacher just starting is do not go into the classroom trying to be the student's friend. Um really set your classroom up with structure. Um good rules and expectations from the get go. Your kids are going to love you and they are gonna wanna be your friend. Um But the kids also do need structure and rules and, and for you to present the expectations your year will go so much smoother if you begin that way. Um And ultimately by the end of the year, your whole classroom um are gonna be your great friends.
